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July 2nd represents a very busy day in the international scouting world, as a new group of 16-year-old international prospects are suddenly eligible to sign with major-league teams. The Brewers didn’t do much internationally last year, but they were extremely active today, as they announced five signings:

Four of the five names were mentioned on Monday by Ben Badler of Baseball America. It’s been fascinating to read his preview material over the past week and subsequently watch it come to fruition. He’s been absolutely on the mark with almost everything that’s taken place today.

We profiled Dominican outfielder Nicolas Pierre earlier this morning, but here is some information about some of the other international players who will soon join the DSL Brewers at the organization’s academy in San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic.

SS Franly Mallen, Dominican Republic

Mallen is the second highly-ranked international prospect the Brewers grabbed today. MLB.com ranked him as the 22nd-best prospect available on the international market.

Mallen, 16, is 6-foot-1, 150 pounds and doesn’t have any standout tools yet, but he’s a solid athlete who could grow into more power once he gets stronger. He’s a righthanded hitter who has a chance to stick at shortstop, although he’ll need to make strides there and could outgrow the position. Mallen plays in the Dominican Prospect League and trains with Basilio Vizcaino, who is known as “Cachaza.”